Find Storage Solutions for Small Apartments

by Sr. Editor on July 8, 2010


Photo Credit: (iStockPhoto/YinYang)

In small spaces, clutter can seem twice as overwhelming. Small appliances, piles of clothes and rows of toiletries may appear endless, when they’re really quite manageable with a few space-saving storage solutions. Whether you live in a loft, studio, one-bedroom apartment or simply a small rental home, you can regain your sanity with a few simple organizational pieces designed to maximize your minimal space.

In the pantry, hang an over-the-door pocketed shoe organizer for spices, bags of grains, soup cans and more. Depending on the model you purchase, these sturdy compartments can hold the weight of up to 36 pairs of shoes, so don’t be shy about loading them full of stuff. You can also use this solution in your linen closet to store extra shampoo, soap and bathroom supplies, though you should keep medicines out of reach of children and heed temperature storage precautions.

Utilize empty wall space for storage. In your bathroom, hang an attractive cabinet or shelves for items you frequently reach for, such as toothpaste, deodorant and contact solution. In the bedroom, fill shelves with attractive, solid baskets to hold bathing suits, underwear, scarves, jewelry and other small accessories. In the kitchen, shelves can store plates, glasses and small appliances. In the pantry, install large hooks (making sure they’re attached to wall studs) for your pots, pans and utensils, and in the bedroom closet, use the hooks for hanging up your bicycle or extra coats. Store DVDs and CDs on shelves in the living room.

Purchase multi-use furniture, such as storage ottomans, platform beds with drawers or a secretary desk/dresser. A storage ottoman with tray tables stores blankets or toys inside, plus you can prop your feet on it or use the tray tables to convert it into a small dining table. Since platform beds don’t require box springs, find one with four roomy drawers underneath. Uncover the top portion of a secretary desk/dresser to work on school projects, and use the spacious drawers for clothes.

Create a closet with storage drawers and boxes, and use a curtain to conceal them. Find an empty corner or wall space, and fill it from the floor to (almost) as high as you can reach with storage boxes or drawers in all sizes. Then install a curtain track or rod from your ceiling (making sure to install it to the rafters), in front of the storage boxes. Then place a curtain along the track or rod, and your clutter is instantly managed and out of sight.

Use racks to maximize cabinet space. Vertical racks can store oddly-shaped items, such as lids with knobs, that don’t stack well, or help keep plastic storage container lids within reach. Horizontal racks can add an additional shelf for items that don’t stack to the top of the shelf, such as plates, cups and cleaning supplies. Inexpensive custom cupboard shelf and drawer kits create storage for canned goods, cleaners, food wraps and jars.

Consider under-cabinet storage options. Store stemware and mugs on an under-cabinet stemware rack, and get paper towels off the counter but still within reach with a paper towel rack installed underneath cupboards. Storage units under cabinets also come in larger sizes and as a pull-down option, so you can store countless supplies out of sight but still make them easily accessible.

In addition to the suggestions above, keep clutter at a minimum by putting things away whenever you are no longer using them. Hang up clothes and put shoes away immediately, and think hard about purchasing knick-knacks or additional decorative items for your home before you first get rid of a few things first. Hold a yard sale if you need to, which may fund your storage solutions, and remember to maintain clutter daily.

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How to Correctly Pack Moving Boxes

by Sr. Editor on June 18, 2010


Photo Credit: (iStockPhoto/lisegagne)

When you’re stressed about moving into your first or next apartment, you might be tempted to toss all of your belongings in the nearest box, tape it up and lug it to your car. However, improperly packing moving boxes may cause damages to your stuff, or worse, yourself, if all of the contents drop on your foot.

Avoid having to repack or purchase new knick-knacks by packing boxes correctly the first time, using the tips below.

Purchase sturdy moving boxes, or find thick boxes that were built to hold heavy materials, such as liquor boxes. You’ll find that liquor boxes, while strong, are often small, as it’s best to pack heavy objects in a manageable box.

Pack up one room at a time, and label all of your boxes with which room they go in. Write the word “Fragile” on boxes that contain breakable goods. Organize while you move, putting grouped items in bags first, and then put those bags into the boxes.

Reinforce the bottom of all of your boxes with packing tape.
Packing tape is specifically designed to stick to the box and provides an additional layer of strength. Make sure you take this step, since it will likely prevent heavy items from falling through the bottom of the box.

Place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom for cushioning. Of course, this only applies to boxes in which you’ll be packing both heavy and light items.

Wrap items individually, placing crushed paper inside hollowed-out spaces in vases and bowls. Fill in the crevices of boxes with fabric items, such as socks or dish towels, heavy, crumpled paper, bubble wrap or packing peanuts to prevent items from shifting during the move.

Store the heaviest items in small boxes so they’re easier to carry.
Never load any box more than 50 pounds, or 30 pounds if you’re smaller, so you can control what you’re lifting.

Pack the next-heaviest items on the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top. This will prevent the lighter items from being crushed under the weight of the heavier items.

Make sure the items you’ll need first are loaded in the boxes last.
This includes toiletries, kids’ toys, pet supplies and a change of clothes. If you’re using a moving truck, make sure these items are the last to go in the truck; if you’re moving in your car, make sure they’re easy to reach.

Don’t pack up the common sense. Consider the size, weight and shape of your objects when you’re packing them, and when in doubt, don’t let certain items leave your side. Place boxes with valuable items and personal belongings on the front seat of your own car when you move.

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Pull Up a Blanket at the Best Places to Picnic

by Sr. Editor on May 14, 2010


Photo Credit: (iStockPhoto/iofoto)

The glorious two months before summer begins provides the perfect weather and foliage for one of America’s favorite pastimes, picnicking. Celebrate on your own on June 18, International Picnic Day, when picnickers around the world pack baskets, spread out blankets and eat lunch on lawns, in parks and at events.

The origin of the word “picnic” probably comes from the French word “piquer,” which means “to pick or peck,” combined with the word “nique,” meaning trifle, to convey the idea of multiple guests bringing different foods. Picnics likely began during medieval times from social banquets held outdoors by the wealthy, usually to celebrate a successful hunt. Today, “picnic” designates anyone eating outdoors.

Though International Picnic Day is not recognized by Congress, you can still honor the unofficial holiday in your backyard or at a neighborhood park. If you’re lucky enough to be near any of the following 12 cities, check out the best picnic places each city has to offer.

Washington, D.C.
Georgetown Waterfront Park in D.C.’s Georgetown neighborhood provides a gorgeously landscaped, lush setting with waterside views of Theodore Roosevelt Island and the Kennedy Center. Spread out a blanket on the lawns surrounded by flowers and greenery between Washington Harbor and Key Bridge.

San Francisco
When the weather is warm and sunny in San Francisco, pack a picnic, bring the dog and head over to Crissy Field, where you’ll discover picturesque views of the Golden Gate Bridge, which is practically overhead. Afterwards, walk, run or bike through the park trails.

Atlanta
Located about two miles northeast of downtown Atlanta, Piedmont Park offers glorious views of dogwood-lined paths and the Atlanta skyline reflected in Lake Clara Meer. Picnic on The Meadow, Oak Hill or the Front Lawn, or grab a drink at Park Tavern, a restaurant that overlooks the park. Afterwards, tour the adjacent Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Miami
Unwind with a bottle of wine and a picnic at Crandon Beach, a gorgeous two-mile beach with calm water in Key Biscayne. Though the destination is popular with locals for its promenade, surfing waters and family amusement center, Crandon Beach is much more peaceful than South Beach, with the same perfect aquamarine water and Miami skyline views.

New York City
You’ll feel like you’re in a painting when you picnic at the oasis-like triangle by the pond on the southeast corner of Central Park, which provides the perfect perch for people-watching. As you sit on the gently sloped, grass- and moss-covered banks, you’ll see couples and families paddling the lake, college students tossing the Frisbee and soaking up rays and exercise enthusiasts playing baseball, jogging and walking.

Chicago
At Prairie Garden in Grant Park, you won’t lack for spectacular scenery while you nosh on the sandwiches from your picnic basket. The wildflower-covered oval plots here cover three acres in beauty and fragrance, and the nearby Lake Michigan and its patrons provide the perfect Chicago conversation piece over lunch.

St. Louis
At Tower Grove Park, walk the grounds and admire the restored greenhouse and gazebos first, then find a shady spot to enjoy your picnic lunch. Formerly a Victorian walking park, park patrons can still revel in the fancy Victorian pavilions and sculptures commissioned by Henry Shaw in the 1800s, plus more than 8,000 trees and shrubs imported from around the world.

Austin
Just 30 miles west of Austin is the 232-acre Hamilton Preserve, which includes Hamilton Pool, a spectacular swimming hole that’s a great place to picnic, hike and swim. The sparkling, clear pool and grotto were formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion. A 45-foot waterfall splashes into the swimming hole surrounded by layers of rock, creating a truly breathtaking oasis in the middle of Texas.

San Diego
San Diego is home to Balboa Park, the nation’s largest urban cultural park, located adjacent to the San Diego Zoo. Throw a blanket down throughout the park or enjoy some of the designated playground and picnic areas at Pepper Grove Playground or the children’s play area at Thorn and Sixth Avenue.

Seattle
Kerry Park in the Queen Anne neighborhood offers postcard-worthy views of the Space Needle, the downtown skyline, Elliott Bay and, on a clear day, Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountains. Picnic and then watch airplanes as they fly up from Puget Sound, turn over Elliott Bay and land at the Seattle-Tacoma airport.

Denver
About 30 miles west of Denver is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, a park that has several picnic spots next to the road and lots of short trails that can be linked together to form a longer hike. However, the ideal picnic spot is at the Panorama Point Scenic Overlook, where visitors can see 100 miles of the Continental Divide.

Salt Lake City
Truly appreciate the foods that comprise your picnic at Wheeler Farm, where you can tour the historic 19th century home, milk a cow for 50 cents, ride on tractor-drawn wagons, shop at the country store and of course, picnic. Try to plan your picnic around one of Wheeler Farm’s varying special events held throughout the year.

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How to Host a Rooftop Deck Party

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

You just discovered that your new apartment building has an accessible rooftop, just in time for the summer. You may live in an urban jungle, but that should not prevent you from enjoying the finest outdoor garden party. Surround yourself in a shady green oasis, and break out the nice table linens; you can host a rooftop deck or garden party that will make your yard-mowing suburban friends wish they had rented an apartment in the city.

Rooftop Party
Image: Jawcey (Flickr)

Get permission from the landlord.

First, you need to find out if you are allowed to host parties on the roof of your apartment building. There may be some rules about how many people can access the roof, what the roof can be used for or reserving the roof during busy times of year. While you’re getting permission from your landlord, see if your apartment building neighbors want to help put together a big deck party. It would be a great way to get to know them and all their friends.

Make sure you have enough furniture for entertaining.

If your rooftop deck is not already equipped with patio furniture or lounge chairs, it’s time to ask your neighbors to get some tables and seating together. If every outdoor-loving, sociable tenant contributes at least one piece of furniture, you should have enough space for people to sit. Maybe the landlord will let you leave the furniture on the rooftop for future events. It’s best to keep it simple, so stick with inexpensive plastic furniture or folding chairs. If you plan on hosting a fancy affair, you can always dress up the patio furniture with tablecloths (or white sheets) and chair covers with ribbon.

Check for electrical outlets and a water connection.

If you want to play music or need to have access to water for your outdoor rooftop bar, it is important to make sure that you have the essentials ahead of time. Electrical outlets are not a given on a rooftop, and neither is a water supply. Look for this stuff ahead of time so you can make a plan for running extension cords from nearby apartments or stocking up on canned or bottled drinks with ice-filled coolers.

Prepare for the weather.

The weeks leading up to this fabulous rooftop party have been filled with warm, sunny days. However, be prepared for Murphy’s Law. Rain is always a possibility, and so is unbearable, sweltering heat (you are on a rooftop, after all). It’s a good idea to have a waterproof tent or canopy set up in addition to a few strong electric fans. The temperature on the top of a roof tends to be more extreme either way. Hot, stagnant days of summer are amplified on a tar-filled roof. Contrarily, rainy wind does not have building walls to buffer the blow, so make sure that the gazebo tent is secure and does not blow off the rooftop.

Provide trash cans and recycling bins.

Not providing adequate and proper waste management is a common mistake among amateur party hosts. Be sure that people do not have to ask you, “Where should I dump this beer bottle?” Also, find out what the smoking rules are beforehand. Chances are strong that smoking will be prohibited if you are on the roof of a public apartment building. Be sure to let guests know, and post signs to reinforce this rule.

Rooftop deck parties are the perfect venue for urban apartment dwellers to enjoy the outdoors. By adding outdoorsy details such as large potted plants and flowers, your guests will have the best of both worlds –a rooftop garden party amidst an awesome view of the city’s lit skyscape.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in San Jose.

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Austin is known as the “Tex-Mex capital” of the United States, so if you happen to live there, you are in an ideal location to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. This year, Cinco de Mayo falls on a Wednesday. “Hump day” is the ideal day of the week for an after-hour cocktail. Here are just a few places in Austin that will be toasting Mexican culture on or around May 5 with drink specials, tasty food and other Mexican-themed goodies.

Cinco de Mayo
Image: Thetruthabout (flickr)

La Condesa
400 W 2nd St
Austin, TX 78701

Make sure you make a reservation on May 5. This hip, modern Mexican restaurant is popular on any night of the week, but Cinco de Mayo is especially busy. Conveniently located downtown, La Condesa offers a modern, eclectic atmosphere with contemporary Mexican dishes inspired by the hip, bohemian Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City. This is a good place to go if you are in the mood for posh dinner on Cinco de Mayo.

El Chile Café Y Cantina
1809 Manor Rd
Austin, TX 78722

Get there early to get a seat on the patio. El Chile Café Y Cantina serves up Tex-Mex food with rich, decadent sauces. Try the Oaxacan red mole that Critics rave about on El Chile’s roasted pork enchiladas. The smokey salsa is so good, they sell it by the jar. Happy hour is from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. You can get half price appetizers and $1 off all drinks.

El Taquito
1713 E Riverside Dr
Austin, TX 78741

No alcohol is served here, but that may not matter if you are in the mood for a good greasy spoon place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. If that is the case, head down to El Taquito for some rather authentic greasy Mexican food. Beware, though, that this place caters to those who like the real deal – the kind of food you might find on the streets of Mexico City. There is no orange cheese here, and the tacos are made from corn tortillas – not flour or wheat. Ask for a jarisco drink or have a Mexican coke.

Fonda San Miguel
2330 W North Loop Blvd
Austin, TX 78756

On the classy end of Mexican restaurants in Austin, perhaps Fonda San Miguel takes the cake. The heavy doors and elaborate paintings on the wall will make you feel like you’ve been invited to a wealthy drug lord’s estate for dinner. Fonda San Miguel is a great place to impress a date for a Cinco de Mayo dinner. The hacienda style building is surrounded by great landscaping, mood lighting in the trees and you are greeted by valets as you pull up. The menu and drink selection are equally impressive. Make sure you make reservations.

Curra’s Grill
614 E Oltorf St
Austin, TX 78704

Curra’s Grill is a relaxed environment to grab some really good food and reasonably priced drinks. This place is very popular among locals, but it also has gained respect and notoriety in several restaurant reviews. It was voted “Best Interior Mexican Food” by the Austin Chronicle and “One of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Texas” by the Texas Monthly. Their hot sauce alone was voted “Best Red Sauce” in the 1998 Austin Hot Sauce Contest. Get there early to get one of the coveted patio seats.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin

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Cinco de Mayo Ideas for Working Stiffs

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

May 5th falls on a Wednesday this year. While “hump day” may not be ideal for most people to throw a massive Cinco de Mayo party, it is the perfect day of the week to relax and invite some friends over for Mexican-themed cocktails, food and fun after work. When you are busy, it is easy to forget about this festive holiday that is right around the corner. So be prepared when somebody says, “Hey, what are you doing for Cinco de Mayo tonight?”

Cinco de Mayo Margaritas
Image: Cillian Storm (Flickr)

Keep in mind that nine-to-fivers need to get an early jump on middle of-the-work-week festivities. Do not wait until 9 p.m. to get your Cinco de Mayo party going. If you are hosting an event, make sure you include food so people will not have to squeeze in time for dinner.

Host a Taco Night

Taco nights are so easy and versatile; it is hard not to please everyone. Just set up a buffet-type taco bar complete with refried beans, taco meat, lettuce, sour cream, cheese, hot sauce, pico de gallo, guacamole an more. Give people the option of both hard shells and soft shells. Stock your bar with Mexican beer and liquor for authentic Mexican libations. Adding ambiance to your house or apartment is super easy with a few details such as a piñata, some string lights and, of course, Mexican music.

Have a Mexcian-Themed Pot Luck Night

You’re busy, so why do all the work when most people are more than happy to bring something to the fiesta? Host a Cinco de Mayo potluck at your home that will make all of your foodie friends believe that they have died and gone to a Latin American heaven. Pot lucks are low maintenance get-togethers because you only have to worry about one or two dishes and perhaps drinks. Pot lucks are also a great way to try new dishes. So, toast Mexican culture this Cinco de Mayo with some great home-made Mexican food and drinks.

Prepare a Margarita Bar, Including Light Hors d’oeuvres

Perhaps your “hump-day” amigos enjoy afternoon cocktails to break up the work week. In this case, get the blenders out and invite people over to your place with the focal point being a margarita bar. Don’t forget the cute mini umbrellas and sliced fruit to garnish your frozen drinks. If you need some inspiration on making creative margaritas, MargaritaTexas.com has everything you need to know about making margaritas, including some very unique recipes.  You can’t let your friends drink on an empty stomach, so make sure that you have plenty of Mexican-like hors d’oeuvres available.

Attend Happy Hour at a Latin Club

If you prefer not to have the Cinco de Mayo celebration at your house, outsource the fun with the professionals. There are plenty of local bars in your town that have Cinco de Mayo events –especially during happy hour when you and your colleagues get off work. Take your salsa shoes if you are going to a dance club and make sure that you have a designated driver or make plans to take a taxi home if you plan on taking advantage of the two-for-one sangria specials.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in San Jose.

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10 Tips to Break the Ice with Your Mother-in-Law

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

Mother’s day is around the corner. For many women who have mother-in-laws, this can be a stressful and confusing holiday. While some married ladies are lucky enough to hit it off with their in-laws from get-go, many others find that they need to put a little effort into their in-law relationship. If you feel that your relationship with the mother-in-law could use some warming up, here are 10 tips to break the ice.

Mother in Law CakeImage: dospaz (Flickr)

1. Plan some one-on-one time with your mother-in-law.

Sure, you are married to her son and she sees you (with the rest of the family) at holidays. But how well do you actually know each other? If you found this article by typing “mother-in-law” along with “break the ice” in a search engine, chances are you need help reaching out. If you live in the same town, why not initiate some time together – even if it is only for lunch or running some errands one weekend while your husband stays home or is out of town? Chances are, she will appreciate the simple suggestion: “Hey, want to do lunch on Saturday?”

2. Never mistake your mother-in-law’s taste with that of your own mother.

Never expect your mother-in-law to be similar to your own mom. Keep in mind that the mother/daughter things that you enjoy doing with your own mom may not necessarily work with your spouse’s mom. A day of shopping with lunch and a pedicure may, in your opinion, sound like the perfect recipe for bonding, but not if your mother-in-law hates that stuff.

3. Find out what your mother-in-law likes to do.

Ask your husband or just ask her yourself. If going to a Nascar race or football game is her idea of a fun time, score some tickets and surprise her for a day of sport watching. Don’t like sports? Well, just suck it up. This is about making an effort to bond with your mother-in-law, after all. Besides, you may be surprised that by opening yourself up to new experiences, you actually have a good time.

4. Correspond with her via email.

If your mother-in-law is really a tough nut to crack, you may want to begin softening your relationship by email correspondence. Sometimes email can be an easy way to open up discussion for those that have a tough time communicating. You have time to carefully reflect on your dialog rather than worrying about what will blurt out of your mouth (or hers) in person. Email her just to say hello, or use email to bring up more touchy subjects that require a certain degree of diplomacy.

5. Call her just to say hello.

Pick up the phone once a week and call just to say hello. Tell her what you and your hubby have been up to and ask her if she feels better from that cold she had last week. You can keep the conversation brief and unless she really hates you, she will undoubtedly appreciate your concern and sentiment.

6. Don’t tell her too much.

So, now that you have a dialog going, that does not mean that you have to tell her everything. In fact, keep sensitive details to yourself. She does not want to hear about your financial business, fights with her son or other personal affairs. If you need someone to lend an ear, save your baggage (if you must) for your closest girlfriends. Meanwhile, keep it positive with your mother-in-law. On the contrary, if you are particularly proud of your husband, be sure to tell her how great he is – even if she already knows.

7. Cook for her.

If your mother-in-law is like most women, the way to her heart is a good meal. Invite her over for brunch one day or cook her dinner. This takes the pressure off of eating out and wondering who pays. Plus, it’s a chance to show off your cooking skills – if you have any. If you are not the best cook, keep it simple or order in. The point is, she is invited over to your house for dinner.

8. Give her time alone with her son.

Sometimes mother-in-laws who are hard to warm up to are jealous of the time you are spending with their son. If your husband is a momma’s boy and you suspect that she may be jealous of the time you are spending together, give them some time alone. Mom may want some time to discuss important family issues with your husband or just want to enjoy a day of golf with their son like they used to do before you were in the picture.

9. Ask for help.

No daughter-in-law is perfect so do not try to pretend to be. The good news is most moms like to feel useful and help. This goes double for retired mother-in-laws. If she enjoys sewing, ask her if she wouldn’t mind making you something if you provide the materials. Of course if you have kids, she will most likely be happy to babysit occasionally.

10. Kill her with kindness.

If all else fails and you are really dealing with an ice-queen mother-in-law, just kill her with kindness. You know you can’t change people, but you can at least control how you deal with them. Simply don’t expect much from her in return. You can live easy knowing that you have done everything in your power to reach out and bond with her. Just be nice and deal with her in the nicest way you know how.

April Lenini writes for apartmenguide in Austin.

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Advice for College Graduates Class of 2010

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

Many college students have the luxury of avoiding practical thoughts of reality while living in an academic world that promises a successful future with each passing class that leads to a college degree. College is generally fun and for the most part, easy. However, it rarely prepares you for the real world. It is no surprise that so many college students sail through their college years choosing to be blissfully oblivious to the details of real life after college. If you are part of the college graduating class of 2010, you face some unique challenges.  Here is some advice for you. Consider it a cheat sheet for real life 101.

College Graduates 2010
Image: Bredgur (Flickr)

Don’t be ashamed to move back in with mom and dad – for a while anyway

If you do not already have your own place with a steady income and a sound budget, it may be a smart idea to move back home until you get all that sorted out. Don’t be ashamed. You are not the only college graduate who will be moving back in with mom and dad. According to a recent poll by Collegegrad.com, 80 percent of 2009 college graduates moved back home with their parents after graduation, up from 77 percent in 2008, 73 percent in 2007 and 67 percent in 2006. Moving in with the parents is smart because it saves you lots of money while you figure out how you are going to afford to live on your own. Just be mindful that you are no longer living in the dorms and be respectful of the house rules. Offer to contribute to the household like an adult if you want to be treated like one.

Size up your expenses and debt – if you have any

Do your budget. If you have any student loans, you usually have a grace period of 6 months or so before you have to start paying money back. Even so, find out your your payment will be and factor that into your monthly living expenses. You may not be paying rent and utilities if you have chosen to move home, but gym memberships, credit cards, car payments, gas and other expenses still need to get paid.  You may have to eliminate some things from your freshly graduated, broke budget. Make it a priority to pay off any consumer debt and devise a plan to do this once you find a job.

Just get a job

This is of course the reason you attended college in the first place, right? Well, keep in mind your first job out of college may not be your dream job. According to Collegegrad.com’s Director of Marketing and PR, Adeola Ogunwole,t he competitive job market is only one dynamic getting in the way of college graduates’ gainful employment. The other big obstacle is unreasonable expectations. Consider your first job a starter job – something to keep you busy and help put a little cash your pocket while you work toward the ideal career. Don’t feel bad if you don’t even know what that ideal career is. You have plenty of time to figure that out and it will always change as you get more experience and figure out exactly what you do and don’t like about various industries. The average person changes careers several times in his or her lifetime (not jobs, careers). So you might as well get started and get the crappy jobs out of the way first.

Define your goals (short term and long term)

While you are working your way through your first entry-level job, you may feel a sense of disappointment. “Is this what I went to college for?” many college graduates wonder. Use this as a motivation to figure out what you really want to do with your life. Look on the bright side and make the best of the experience. Entry-level positions can teach you, by process of elimination, what you like and dislike about that job. Keep notes and put your career goals in writing. As you define your goals, let others know about them too. Your boss may help you move to a different department within the company or your parents may have friends that work in a field that you are curious about. If you have personal goals of getting married and starting a family, define, write down and imagine how your life would look with those aspects as well. It may seem corny, but these jedi mind tricks can be a powerful tool when it comes to going after and getting what you want.

Don’t be so hard on yourself

Very few college graduates get the life that they imagined for themselves immediately after graduating. It takes much more than a four year degree to acquire skills, maturity and experience. While it may not seem like it for a while, there is life after college. Be patient and enjoy the ride.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin.

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Most Unusual Homecoming Traditions Across America

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

For most high school students, homecoming is the most important time of year. In fact, in most schools, activities for the entire year are merely a set up leading to the climax of this one important football game. Included among homecoming activities are crazy traditions. Here are some of the more unusual homecoming traditions across America.

Homecoming mums
Image: Comwiz (Flickr)

Homecoming Mums in Texas

Many students in Texas take homecoming mums just as serious as the homecoming game itself. A homecoming mum is an oversized corsage wildly decorated in school colors with anything from bows, bells, stuffed animals, long ribbons or streamers, and even lights. This southwest version of a corsage is so big it is worn around the neck as a breastplate with streamers flowing down the front of the body to the floor. When it comes to mums for homecoming, it seems the tackier, the better. Homecoming mums have been known to cost more than $200 and weigh more than 20 pounds. Traditionally given to girls by their boyfriends, mums are exchanged by boys and girls alike by family members or friends. Boys wear a smaller version of mums on their sleeve called homecoming garters.

The Speedo Dash

At Cupertino High School near San Jose, Calif., the boys water polo team shows off their half naked bodies -scantily clad in Speedos by making a dash out of the corner of the football stadium and running across the field during halftime.  That may not seem so bizarre, except that they do this at the moment the homecoming king and queen – all dressed up – are being crowned. Nonetheless, it is a popular homecoming tradition at Cupertino, with their much anticipated entrance being announced over the stadium PA and high school girls cheering wildly as they dash across the field.

Cross-dressing

In a small Texas school district, high schoolers from Spurger county celebrate TWIRP, which stands for “The Woman Is Requested to Pay.” During homecoming week, boys and girls have a chance to reverse social roles and let older girls invite boys on dates, open doors and pay for sodas (cougars in the making?) There is an additional twist. To add a dramatic visual to the conventional role change, this homecoming tradition encourages boys to dress like girls and vice versa (in other words – cross dressing.) This unusual tradition has been stopped by one parent’s complaint of “homosexual overtones.”

Weird Homecoming Mascots

Forget fierce and intimidating animal mascots, some high schools are so confident in their athletic teams, they transcend the cliché symbols of bravery, stamina and victory. Take the “The Laurel Hill Hoboes,” for example. This high school mascot is a basically a clown-type bum with a school letter t-shirt. A high school in Huntington Beach, California has “The Huntington Beach Oilers.” The mascot is a man in a hard hat, boots and a wrench standing in front of an oil leak. It is easy to imagine the students fighting each year over who is going to be the mascot in that homecoming parade. Centralia High School features “The Orphans” (for boys) and “The Annies” (for girls). New Berlin High School has a pretzel as their mascot.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin.

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2010 Fashion Trends for Prom Dresses

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

You don’t have to miss out on the prom dress trends this year or spend a lot of money on a fashionable prom gown. In fact, spending more than $100 for a prom dress is so 2000. This decade is about looking like a million bucks while being smart about your hard-earned cash.  No matter what your style, there are many prom dresses this year that will look fabulous on you.  Here is a sneak peak at the dresses you will see at the prom in 2010.

2010 prom dresses
Image: Cherryfluff (Flickr)

Bright Colors

Fashion experts are saying that bright is the new black. Think 1980s neon bright. Bright shades of red, orange, blue, yellow and green are popping up everywhere in retail stores for prom. This is your night to stand out. Forget the basic little black dress for prom, and go with a bold color that looks good on your skin tone. You may want to consider self-tanner or a spray-on tan if you need some color to pull off a bright color, but do not get too obsessed with having a tan. It is not worth risking your health in a tanning booth and besides, the orange, over-tanned look is definitely out this year.

Shiny and Metallic

Metallic fabrics have made their way into the classic formal option and will probably never really go out of style. This year, fabrics with a sheen or sparkle are popular choices for those beauties who love to shine – particularly in shades of gold, copper and silver. Shiny beads also add pizzazz to any fabric. Whether they are used sparingly or liberally, they are hot details for prom dresses in 2010.

Wild or Bold Patterns

One of the newest fashion trends for formal dresses this year is fresh, bold prints. From floral to graphic designs, these dresses are showing up everywhere including celebrity events, weddings and of course, proms. Fashion hint: When you choose a bold pattern, make sure to keep accessories at a minimum. The pattern of your dress is sure to get you noticed enough. No need to take away from it with large earrings or a sparkly necklace.

Any length goes

From mini dresses to long, sweeping gowns, this year is filled with a variety of lengths when it comes to prom dresses. Choose a prom dress length for your body type. If you are short, you may want to stick with a shorter length dress just above your knees. Tall girls can wear anything but look great in long gowns. A tea-length dress comes about mid-calf, which works best on medium to tall girls.

Flowing, Tutu or Straight

One of the hottest prom dress trends (carried over from last year) is the tutu prom dress. Usually a short, baby doll dress, it flares out at the waist or just below the bust with layers of soft crinoline. Contrarily, a straight pencil prom dress with either a pleated or fitted waist is a fresh fashion trend for 2010.  These dresses are also known as a pin-up or vintage dress. Flowing dresses are always a romantic look, whether pleated, flared or with a duster or train.

Thrifty

It’s en vogue to be a frugal fashionista. “Frugalistas” are well-dressed women with financially savvy brains. They know that you don’t need to spend more than $100 on a dress to look great. You can look like a million bucks with a used dress from a thrift store, consignment store or discount retailer such as Ross, TJ Maxx or Marshalls. If you don’t plan on wearing your dress again, you can spread the frugalista karma by donating your dress to a girl in need or getting a free dress if you need one yourself at Donatemydress.org.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in San Jose.

 

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Four Ways Single Moms Can Celebrate Mother’s Day

by Sr. Editor on April 28, 2010

If you’re a mom, no matter what your budget or schedule, you deserve to be recognized on Mother’s Day.

Mothers day for single moms
Image: Ecohen (Flickr)

Single mothers of young children often have to initiate their own Mother’s Day celebration. If so, don’t feel guilty about taking some time to yourself for some pampering, fun or quality time with your kids to reflect about what being a mother means to you. Here are some ways that single moms like you can honor their supermom selves and celebrate Mother’s Day.

Time to Yourself

Being a mother is hard work. Sometimes you just need to get away. While it may seem ironic to want to get away from your kids on a day that honors your commitment to motherhood, it is not a bad idea. Remember, this is your day. Let a friend or grandparent take the kids while you take a few hours for yourself to have a pedicure, shop or go for a vigorous hike or another workout you enjoy. You may be surprised at how fast you can recharge your mom batteries with just a day – or even half a day – to yourself.

Time with Friends or Other Moms

If you need some girl time, ditching the kids to spend time with your adult friends may be just the thing for a Mother’s Day celebration, especially if your friends are also moms. Get someone to watch your children and join your fellow baby mamas out for brunch, a chick flick and maybe even some afternoon cocktails. It is important to reconnect with the friends that you had before you had kids. No one can lend an ear or make you laugh like a good girlfriend.

Time with Your Mom

Why not spend the day with your own mom, with or without the kids? If you get someone to watch the little ones, you can do all the things grown-up moms and daughters like to do, such as shopping and lunch, shopping and snacks or shopping and eating chocolate. If your mom doesn’t get to see her grand kids that often, you can include them on a Mother’s Day outing. Go to a park and pack a picnic. Let the kids wear themselves out on the playground while you and your mom sip mimosas and gossip. Or, go someplace cool, such as a museum exhibit or an aquarium.

Time with Your Kids

They are the reason you are being celebrated on this day. If you are like many busy working single mothers, you may not feel like you have enough quality time with your kids. Sure, you are constantly harping on them to do their homework, pick up their room and help with the dishes, but don’t forget that being a mom can actually be fun. Take some time to actually enjoy your kids by doing something fun together.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in San Jose.

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Austin is known as the “Tex-Mex capital” of the United States, so if you happen to live there, you are in an ideal location to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. This year, Cinco de Mayo falls on a Wednesday. “Hump day” is the ideal day of the week for an after-hour cocktail. Here are just a few places in Austin that will be toasting Mexican culture on or around May 5 with drink specials, tasty food and other Mexican-themed goodies.

Cinco de Mayo
Image: Thetruthabout (flickr)

La Condesa
400 W 2nd St
Austin, TX 78701

Make sure you make a reservation on May 5. This hip, modern Mexican restaurant is popular on any night of the week, but Cinco de Mayo is especially busy. Conveniently located downtown, La Condesa offers a modern, eclectic atmosphere with contemporary Mexican dishes inspired by the hip, bohemian Condesa neighborhood of Mexico City. This is a good place to go if you are in the mood for posh dinner on Cinco de Mayo.

El Chile Café Y Cantina
1809 Manor Rd
Austin, TX 78722

Get there early to get a seat on the patio. El Chile Café Y Cantina serves up Tex-Mex food with rich, decadent sauces. Try the Oaxacan red mole that Critics rave about on El Chile’s roasted pork enchiladas. The smokey salsa is so good, they sell it by the jar. Happy hour is from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. You can get half price appetizers and $1 off all drinks.

El Taquito
1713 E Riverside Dr
Austin, TX 78741

No alcohol is served here, but that may not matter if you are in the mood for a good greasy spoon place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. If that is the case, head down to El Taquito for some rather authentic greasy Mexican food. Beware, though, that this place caters to those who like the real deal – the kind of food you might find on the streets of Mexico City. There is no orange cheese here, and the tacos are made from corn tortillas – not flour or wheat. Ask for a jarisco drink or have a Mexican coke.

Fonda San Miguel
2330 W North Loop Blvd
Austin, TX 78756

On the classy end of Mexican restaurants in Austin, perhaps Fonda San Miguel takes the cake. The heavy doors and elaborate paintings on the wall will make you feel like you’ve been invited to a wealthy drug lord’s estate for dinner. Fonda San Miguel is a great place to impress a date for a Cinco de Mayo dinner. The hacienda style building is surrounded by great landscaping, mood lighting in the trees and you are greeted by valets as you pull up. The menu and drink selection are equally impressive. Make sure you make reservations.

Curra’s Grill
614 E Oltorf St
Austin, TX 78704

Curra’s Grill is a relaxed environment to grab some really good food and reasonably priced drinks. This place is very popular among locals, but it also has gained respect and notoriety in several restaurant reviews. It was voted “Best Interior Mexican Food” by the Austin Chronicle and “One of the Best Mexican Restaurants in Texas” by the Texas Monthly. Their hot sauce alone was voted “Best Red Sauce” in the 1998 Austin Hot Sauce Contest. Get there early to get one of the coveted patio seats.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin

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How to Accommodate Vegetarians at Your Barbeque

by Sr. Editor on April 16, 2010

It’s Memorial Day weekend, and you are making plans for your famous annual barbeque. You pride yourself as a meat-grilling master Jedi, but just when you are ready to break out the recipe for your secret rub, you find out that there will be vegetarians present. What are you supposed to do to accommodate these oddballs? Don’t panic. You can still wow your meat-eating guests with your robust marinades while being a good host to vegetarians, too. Here are some simple ways to accommodate vegetarians at your Memorial Day barbeque.

barbecue for Memorial Day
Image: Basykes (Flickr)

Much to the carnivore’s surprise, accommodating vegetarians is pretty easy. Vegetarians are generally prepared when they attend a meat eater’s barbeque to fend for themselves anyway. Your vegetarian guests probably plan on bringing their own veggie burgers or fish (if they are pescatarians) to your barbeque. If you are the type of host that likes to be prepared and cater to everyone, here are some great meat alternatives for you to have on hand for the grill no matter what your barbeque style is. You may even be surprised to see your meat-eating friends enjoying these vegetarian options too.

If you are grilling hamburgers

If you are having a casual hamburger grill-out, you don’t need to go to great lengths for your vegetarian friends. Large portabella mushroom caps make a great hamburger alternative. Best of all, you can season them or marinate them in your own fabulous hamburger spices so your vegetarian friends can be equally impressed. Pescatarians will also appreciate a well-prepared, grilled salmon burger. Of course, you can always find frozen veggie burgers at your local grocery store if you don’t feel like preparing extra stuff. Keep in mind that veggie burgers and portabella mushroom caps do not need much time on the grill compared to the real hamburger patties you are cooking.

If you are grilling hot dogs

You can find vegetarian hot dogs at almost any major grocery store. They are also known as “veggie dogs” on the packaging. Vegetarian hot dogs, like most processed soy products, do not take long to cook on the grill. You can find a variety of vegetarian hot dogs including vegetarian bratwurst and even vegetarian Italian sausage. If you shop at Kroger or Publix, you will easily find these products in the refrigerated health food section. Keep in mind that you are not limited to these soy alternatives. Guest can fill up their hot dog buns “hoagie style “with a vegetarian stir-fry. Put some red peppers, onions, mushrooms, chopped-up tofu or tempeh in some aluminum foil on the grill. Topped off in the hot dog bun with sprouts and some good dressing, these will make a perfect meat alternative.

If you are grilling chicken or steak

Pescatarians love a good tuna steak or a flavorful salmon fillet. You can dress up a tuna steak or salmon fillet in the same glaze or marinade that you plan on using for your regular steaks. For strict vegetarians, you have some other options. Go to the health food section of your grocery store and look for the firmest tofu you can find. It may say “extra-firm” but if you see “firm as a brick,” get that one instead. You can also use tempeh, a tougher, grainier soy product. Slice the tofu or tempeh into flanks and marinate them in your secret sauce. Tofu takes on whatever flavor that you apply to it. Many recipes exist for creating the perfect tofu steak. Some involve mixing it with bread crumbs or cornmeal for the right consistency. Just remember that soy products take a fraction of the time to cook as your regular steaks.

If you are grilling shish kebabs

Vegetarian Shish KabobVegetarians love shish kebabs. As long as you have plenty of veggies in your shish kebab lineup, you don’t need to do anything else. Don’t forget to include a variety of vegetables and even fruit. Pineapple, tomatoes, peppers and onions are great, but you can also include Japanese eggplant, mushrooms, potatoes, zucchini, squash and of course, marinated tofu or tempeh for added protein. Also, shrimp and scallops make a great seafood option for meat-eaters and pescatarians alike.

If you are grilling a whole pig on a spit

Please warn your vegetarian friends. They may decide to eat before they come to your house or they may decide to not come at all.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin.

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How to Baby Proof Your Apartment

by Sr. Editor on April 16, 2010

As a new parent, you know how fast your baby grows. Just when you get used to your baby’s feeding schedule and diaper changes, you realize you need to accommodate his or her ever-changing routine. As your baby grows older, take some precautions to make your apartment safe and secure for crawlers and toddlers.  Here is how you can baby-proof your apartment as your growing baby explores the world around him or her.

baby proof apartment
Image: Magerly(Flickr)

For the first three months, you may have not given much thought about how safe your entire apartment is for babies. They don’t really move much as you carry them back and forth to their cribs, playpens, car seats and strollers. But be prepared after four months to think about the nooks and crannies that your baby will be exposed to as soon as she starts to crawl.

Inspect from a baby’s eye-level

One of the best ways to see the potential household hazards to your baby is to crawl around your apartment floor. Dog bowls, nails, wires, dust and other small objects are some things that you may not even think about while standing upright, five or six feet above the ground. Babies have keen eyesight for small things up close. They will inspect things that you wouldn’t even notice if you were not looking for them. So, get down on all fours and remove anything from the floor that you would not want them putting in their mouths.

Remove or cover sharp edges

Furniture with sharp corners and clumsy babies learning to stand or walk are not a good combination.  You may want to exchange your square or rectangular coffee table with a round one or, better yet, just get rid of the coffee table so your baby has room to scoot about on the floor. If you absolutely cannot part with furniture, or sharp edges in your apartment are unavoidable, you can always buy safety guards to turn sharp corners into soft corners.  They are not very stylish, but you may as well face it: If you have a child, your apartment is probably not going to look stylish for the next several years.

Cover electrical outlets

Electrical outlets that are floor level should all have covers on them –unless they are being used, in which case they should be blocked from access to prevent your baby or toddler from playing with electrical plugs. Baby-safe outlet covers can be found on most online stores. One of the most popular outlet covers on the market is the sliding panel outlet cover. The cover automatically slides over the outlet when the plug is pulled out, protecting your baby from an exposed outlet.

Rearrange House Plants

What kid doesn’t love to play in the dirt? A potted plant is the perfect playground for babies and toddlers, so say goodbye to any house plants that are on the floor or within reach to a small gardener prodigy. If the weather is warm enough, put them outside or find another location for them, such as hanging them from the ceiling.

Install baby locks for cabinets

Kitchens are the most dangerous place in the house –especially for babies. No baby should be roaming around on the kitchen floor unattended, but even if you are keeping a close watch on your child, it is wise to secure your bottom kitchen cabinets with baby-proof locks. Accidents happen so fast, and the last thing you want is for your child to get into cleaning chemicals under the sink or cut himself on a sharp appliance.

Keep bathroom doors closed

Does your dog drink out of the toilet bowl? What about your baby? Bathrooms are the second-most dangerous place (after kitchens) for a baby or toddler to explore. Medicine cabinets, showers, tubs, faucets and chemicals are not baby-friendly. The best way to keep your baby safe from the bathroom is to get in the habit of closing the bathroom door – always.

Invest in a baby gate

In areas that do not have a door, the best investment you can make in your home is a baby gate. The safest baby gates are the plastic ones with solid panels. It’s best to avoid the kind with fancy bars, as babies can get their hands stuck or even heads stuck in between the rails. Accordion-style baby gates are not even made anymore, but if you happen to come across one, don’t even think about using it. They are very dangerous and can pinch or even strangle your baby.

By putting yourself in the mind of a curious baby, you can get ahead of the game and create a baby-safe apartment before your child has a chance to get hurt or injured.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in San Jose.

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Practical Nursery Ideas for Your Apartment

by Sr. Editor on April 16, 2010

One of the most exciting things about expecting a baby is getting the nursery ready. When first-time parents start acquiring baby furniture and anticipating their baby’s every need, it makes the reality of having a baby more concrete and believable. The main mistake that many first-time parents make however, is believing that they need to buy every baby product advertised.  Before you go crazy buying a retail package of nursery furniture and decorations, consider the long term use and value. Here are some practical (and affordable) nursery ideas for your apartment that could last you well beyond the baby years.

Baby Nursery
Image: Jelene (Flickr)

The Crib

According to consumer reports, it’s never a good idea to get a hand-me-down, used crib. Older cribs are often recalled for safety reasons and besides, doesn’t this brand new baby person deserve to sleep in a brand new bed? But that doesn’t mean that you need to go out and buy an expensive, trendy baby crib such as the round baby cribs that have been made popular by many celebrities. Cool, yes. Practical, not at all. The most practical cribs are the ones that convert into a toddler bed and even a twin bed when your child gets older. You’ll get more bang for your buck if you think ahead and get something that can be used for a longer amount of time.

Wall Decorations

Before you start painting an elaborate mural of Noah’s Ark in your nursery, think about how old and dated it will look by the time our child is 3. Baby experts recommend using bright colors for developing eyes. One easy and fun way to achieve this is to get some blank canvases and paint. If you are creatively inclined, you can paint your own colorful artwork on a few canvases. If you are not confident in your artistic abilities, you can always find some colorful fabric and staple it to the canvas. This creates a sort of wall paper / paint illusion without having to permanently alter the walls.

The Changing Table

Changing tables can be the most over-rated pieces of baby furniture ever. If you are looking for practicality, use a bookcase, small desk or dresser that is waist-high and throw a changing pad on it. That way, you do not have to sell the changing table when your baby is potty trained and you can repurpose the furniture as a bookcase, small desk or dresser. Voila, that is one less thing that you need to buy as your child transitions from “baby room” to “child’s room”.

The Rocking Chair

While it may seem a little “old school”, you will find a comfortable rocker comes in handy when you are putting your baby to sleep or feeding your baby in the middle of the night. Babies are comforted by slight movement because they are accustomed to it from being in the mother’s womb. The rocking motion mimics the familiar motion of the mother’s body when she walked and moved around. Having a rocking chair in the nursery will undoubtedly be practical and can be used later for seating on the front porch, sun room or backyard patio.

Nursery Themes

Many excited parents are determined to stick to one theme and go all out decorating the nursery with frogs, princesses or teddy bears. This obsessive tendency to theme a nursery can become expensive and is not really practical at all. Remember, your little baby is soon going to have an opinion of his own, and before you know it, you will be re-doing the walls with posters of Thomas the Train, Dora the Explorer or whatever Junior deems appropriate for his own room. As long as you are prepared to part with the elf motif that you labored over before the baby was born, that is fine. If not, keep it bright, fun and simple.

April Lentini writes for Apartment Guide in Austin

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